How do you find job openings?

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uRabbit

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I live in a low-pop area (Boise, ID) and will be going to school to [ultimately] pursue my MSW. I am a bit concerned about how I'll find a job opening (hopefully before I graduate). I know my university (Boise State) will help, but what if they can't find something?

The only ways I've found jobs in the past are:
Newspaper classifieds
boise.craigslist.org
boisehelpwanted.com
boiseidahojobs.com

These sites do not provide much of anything when entering the keywords 'social work'. I started using indeed.com and it has a few more than others. However, the most common position that comes up is 'Psychosocial Rehabilitation Specialist' (PSR), which only pays about $15-20/hr with ~20 hrs/wk. That is less than what I make now with no degree.

Does anyone have any tips or ideas?

Thanks so much!

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Lately I've been browsing job listings via linkedin.com. I suggest trying that over craigslist!
 
If you plan on staying in a small population area, you need to see where the need is and then try to get a field placement in this area. Your field placement will be a great place to network, so definitely put your best foot forward and do the best that you can. Your field supervisor will either be your best reference (do a good job) or your worst nightmare (if you are unprofessional).

If you are interested in an area that might not have a high demand, you may need to reconsider and widen your geographical area.
 
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Is field placement thru the university?

I am planning to stay here in Boise, I think. Seattle was the plan but Boise looks to be more responsible.
 
Field placements (practica) are mandatory parts of the MSW curriculum that are arranged (usually by you) at community agencies and hospitals. Your university will keep a list of approved placements from which you can choose. If you're getting a BSSW, doing one year of practicum is required for graduation. Each year of your MSW program will also have required practica.

And Krisss is correct- the relationships you build during that time can make or break you. Even if you move to a different area, you will need to supply work references as you job-hunt and your practicum supervisor is one of the few appropriate people who can do that when you have minimal experience.
 
Great information! Networking will definitely be a challenge.

Thank you all for th info. I am confident I will be happy in this field. It is proving a great match for me the more I get into it. Just waiting on W-2's to start my enrollment process.
 
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